Abstract: A method for determining nucleotides of a ratite's W specific chromosome comprising the steps of obtaining nucleated blood of the ratite. Then there is the step of introducing a desired microsatellite probe to the nucleated blood so the W specific chromosome is indicated. A method for determining the sex of a ratite. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a DNA sequence of the ratite. Then there is the step of identifying the sex of the ratite from the DNA sequence. Additionally, there is a method for identifying a ratite. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a DNA sequence from the ratite. Then there is the step of separating fragments of the DNA sequence by size. Next, there is the step of hybridizing the fragments with desired microsatellite probes. Then there is the step of recording locations of the fragments.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method for determining nucleotides of a bird's W specific chromosome. The method comprises the steps of (a) obtaining a DNA sequence which includes the W specific chromosome from the bird. Then, there is the step of identifying nucleotides of the DNA sequence of the W specific chromosome. The present invention also pertains to a method of determining a sex of a bird, and a method of determining genetic relatedness between two birds. The present invention also pertains to a method for identifying a bird. Moreover, the present invention pertains to a method for determining predictive pairing for the genetic diversity of two birds. In another embodiment, the present invention pertains to a method for determining reproductive competence of a bird. In yet another embodiment, the present invention pertains to a method for predicting reproductive output of two or more birds.